Watercare is working on its strategy for the provision of safe and reliable water and wastewater services to Auckland over the next 70 years – and Aucklanders now have the chance to influence the direction it takes.

Watercare head of strategy and consenting Helen Shaw says the ‘metropolitan servicing strategy’ covers the area from Whangaparāoa in the north, to Pukekohe in the south.

“We’re creating a 70-year strategy to ensure we can continue to deliver safe, reliable and affordable water services for generations to come. It will take into account the growing population, ageing infrastructure and the increased impacts of climate change.

“This is a journey we need to take together because the decisions we make today will shape our communities for generations. That’s why we’re inviting all Aucklanders to learn about the different challenges we face, and the trade-offs we need to weigh up, and have their say about what’s most important to them.”

The Watercare team will be out and about across the city over the next two months to spread the word and encourage people to have their say.

“People can also learn more about this on our website, where there’s a booklet that provides an overview of the challenges and potential solutions for our city’s water future, and a five-minute survey,” Shaw says.

“This feedback will help shape our plans to align as much as possible with what the community wants and expects.”

Auckland councillor Richard Hills, chair of the policy and planning committee, encourages residents to have their say.

“Before the 2020 drought many of us may have taken water for granted, but the drought and floods have taught us that we are much more vulnerable than we may think.

“This strategy is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Auckland’s water and wastewater services, the challenges we face as a city in the future, and speak up about what’s most important to you.”

Ways you can get involved:

• Come along to one of the events in your part of the city. Visit watercare.co.nz for details.
• Learn more on Watercare’s website and fill out the online form
• Join a webinar on Tuesday 13 May, 6.30pm-8pm or Wednesday 21 May, 6.30pm-8pm. Click here to sign up.

Aucklanders have until June 1 to share their thoughts and ideas. Watercare will then draft a strategy document, which will be released for public consultation in February 2026. The strategy will then be used to guide what Watercare invests in. It will be regularly reviewed and updated to keep up with our ever-changing city.

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